Rourkela, Aug 7: Tensions flared at Rourkela Railway Station when two alleged illegal vendors physically assaulted Station Manager Lakshmidhar Tripathy inside his office.

The attack occurred after Tripathy filed a complaint with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) against unauthorized food sellers operating on the station premises.

The incident took place around 10 am, shortly after the arrival of the Puri-Haridwar Utkal Express at Platform 2. Tripathy, who had repeatedly warned vendors against selling food without permission, was targeted for his efforts to enforce railway regulations.

The attackers reportedly barged into his office and assaulted him, leaving him injured. He was given first aid at Rourkela Government Hospital and later discharged.

According to Tripathy, illegal vending has become rampant at the station, with some vendors allegedly involved in narcotics trade and unauthorized occupation of railway property. Despite multiple reports to higher authorities, no substantial action had been taken, emboldening anti-social elements.

Local passengers and citizens condemned the attack, demanding strict action against the culprits and better enforcement of railway laws. The Government Railway Police (GRP) has detained the two accused and launched an investigation into the matter.

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